RB Joe Bergeron now seeking release from Texas

Texas running back Joe Bergeron is actively seeking a release from his scholarship, a source close to the family told the American-Statesman.

Also on Tuesday, West Texas A&M athletic director Michael McBroom said the school has filed paperwork with UT officials about contacting Bergeron.

If Bergeron went to a Division II school like West Texas A&M, he could play immediately this season. The senior from North Mesquite has only one year of eligibility remaining. Bergeron rushed for 1,392 yards over the last three seasons with the Longhorns and scored 25 touchdowns.

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It was learned last Friday morning that Texas coach Charlie Strong dismissed Bergeron from the Longhorns for an undisclosed violation of team rules.

However, Texas officials have not officially confirmed Bergeron’s dismissal, nor has the school announced running back Jalen Overstreet or safties Chevoski Collins and Josh Turner’s dismissal. All four players’ names still appear on the team’s online roster.

Receivers Kendall Sanders and Montrel Meander’s names were removed from the online roster shortly after they were arrested and charged with second-degree felony sexual assault. Both players are suspended indefinitely. A court date has been set for Aug. 7.

Bergeron’s situation is perplexing. He was sent home from spring football practice for undisclosed reasons. But Strong talked up Bergeron during the coach’s bus tour in April and May and always included him in any discussion about the depth at running back.

Then prior to his appearance at Big 12 media day, Strong told the Statesman, “Joe’s back.” By week’s end, Bergeron was gone from the team for good.

The American-Statesman had previously reported that four players were banned from the team’s workout facility. Strong told the Statesman that all players who were banned faced additional workouts and were subject to random drug tests.

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